Drinking coffee has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving brain function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. A recent study conducted in Hamburg, Germany, compared the brains of more than 2,000 people between the ages of 45 and 74 who drank coffee regularly.

The study found that those who drank three to four cups of coffee a day had the strongest brain structure when looking at several factors including preserved cortical thickness, which is generally associated with higher intelligence. This improvement was seen to increase from those who did not drink coffee to those who drank more. However, the study design was not perfect as it was conducted on a relatively small and homogeneous group.

Nevertheless, this new research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the idea that coffee is good for the brain and overall health. Coffee has been shown to slow cognitive decline and potentially reduce the risks of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, a 2017 meta-analysis of the health effects of coffee found that coffee reduces the incidence of cardiovascular and other diseases, as well as neurological, metabolic and liver conditions. Although not all of these studies looked at the exact number of cups, some of them suggest a threshold of three to four cups for optimal benefit.

It’s important to note that while moderate caffeine consumption may have benefits for some individuals, it can also lead to negative side effects such as nervousness, anxiety or heart palpitations in others. It’s advised not to consume caffeine if you experience these symptoms. Other ways to support brain health on a daily basis include prioritizing sleep, being active and learning new things.